Adam Simon

Adam Simon is the Executive Director of the Aviv Foundation which seeks to empower people with opportunities to improve their lives. Aviv seeks to promote deep Jewish engagement for individuals in inclusive communities, expand peace between Israelis and Palestinians, strengthen a shared identity and opportunities for Israeli Jews to explore Judaism, promote civic engagement in the U.S., and support disadvantaged children within the welfare and education systems. Simon also serves as political philanthropy consultant to the principals of the Aviv Foundation.

Previously, Simon worked at the Schusterman Family Foundation (2008-2016), launching integrated funding, thought leadership, and digital communications strategies in Jewish life. Simon also led efforts to recruit, develop, and retain exceptional professional and volunteer leaders; and implemented a network of 500+ values-driven social change leaders. Earlier, Simon was Executive Director of the Northwestern University Hillel Jewish Student Center (2005-2008).

His contributions to the field of philanthropy include presentations for the National Center for Family Philanthropy, Grantmakers for Effective Organizations, and Jewish Funders Network, as well as board service, committee leadership, and technical assistance for numerous national and local organizations. Simon is a member of the Leap Ambassadors, a network of social change leaders seeking to maximize impact by focusing on data, leadership, and evidence. He is an adjunct faculty member at George Washington University’s Graduate School of Education, is a regular lecturer at Georgetown University and the University of Maryland, and has contributed to numerous publications.

Adam Simon attended Washington University in St. Louis, earning both a B.A. and an MBA. He lives outside Washington, DC with his wife and is the father of two amazing children.